Global Electrochromic Window-Lighting Systems

Results:
The objective was to develop an integrated building equipment communications system (IBECS) ballast network interface that would allow control of zero- to five-volt direct current (VDC) electrochromic (EC) windows from the IBECS network. A prototype IBECS EC network interface was built and successfully tested with a 1x1 ft. EC sample device and current-to-voltage (I-V) controller. Bench-scale tests of the IBECS interface were conducted. Results demonstrated reliable operation of the controller through the IBECS network. During the hours of automated operation, no erroneous transmission values were set on the controller. Status was also monitored without error. Independent measurements of the control voltage generated by the digital potentiometer (part number DS2890) showed that it was correct for the command sent. Controller status read through the network always correlated properly with the measurement of control voltage from the controller.

Downloads and Links:

• "Low-Cost Networking for Dynamic Window Systems", E.S. Lee et. al., Published in Energy and Buildings Journal. LBNL Report 52198, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA. August 2003. (1.16 MB, 15 pp)
   
• "Active Load Management with Advanced Window Wall Systems: Research and Industry Perspectives", E.S. Lee et. al., Presented and published in the Proceedings from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) 2002 Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, August, 2002. (1050 KB, 19 pp)

Contact: Eleanor Lee, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), (510) 486-4997